A significant investment of £28.2 million is set to transform the former Grove Airfield in Wellington Gate with the construction of the new state-of-the-art St John’s CE Academy Secondary School. Spearheaded by Persimmon Homes as part of the 2,500-home Wellington Gate Development, this all-through education facility aims to serve around 600 pupils from nursery to Year 11, addressing an essential educational need in the area.
Seamless Transition for Students
The academy presents a groundbreaking approach to education, providing a smooth transition for students from primary to secondary levels. Located just a short walk from its primary school counterpart, which began operations in 2023, pupils will have a cohesive learning journey from nursery through Year 6 before continuing seamlessly to the secondary phase.
The Vision Behind St John’s CE Academy
Rick Holroyd, the Executive Headteacher, shed light on the school’s philosophy, saying, “Built on a Christian ethos of ‘living life in all its fullness’ (John 10:10), St John’s CE Academy welcomes all, irrespective of faith or beliefs, while nurturing talents across all dimensions of life.
“Our guiding values—respect, courage, and kindness—aim to instil essential qualities for mutual growth. With a striking, modern design, we aspire to create a space where students and staff alike feel a genuine sense of pride in working and learning together.”
Sustainable and Innovative Design Features
Building sustainability is at the heart of the project, alongside first-class educational facilities. The two-storey school will boast features such as a green roof, solar panels, natural and synthetic playing fields, and a cutting-edge rainwater drainage system, showcasing a clear commitment to environmentally responsible design.
Local Community Contribution
John Boughton, Managing Director of Bouygues UK for Wales and the South West, praised the integration of local resources into the construction effort. “At Bouygues UK, we are dedicated to creating low-carbon, energy-efficient structures while strengthening ties with the local community. The St John’s CE Academy project proudly incorporates locally sourced labour and materials.”
Strong Community Ties and Individual Focus
Callum Jackson, head of the secondary phase, highlighted the academy’s focus on nurturing individuals: “We are passionate about fostering a spirit of belonging and accountability. Our small-class model ensures attention to each student as an individual, enabling a personalised learning environment. Partnering closely with parents, carers, and the community, we aim to empower each child to achieve their full potential.”
Leading up to the admissions deadline at the end of October, St John’s CE Academy has already hosted a series of information events. These gatherings provide an opportunity to strengthen community connections, aligning with the school’s mission to create a modern, sustainable, and supportive educational environment.
For parents and carers in the area, this new project represents not just a state-of-the-art learning facility but also a symbol of growth and opportunity in the community.
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